Legal claims defining the scope of protection. Each claim is shown in both the original legal language and a plain English translation.
1. An input device comprising: a first resin substrate having a first curved surface and a second curved surface opposite to the first curved surface, the first resin substrate being light-transmissive and having optical isotropy or optical uniaxial anisotropy uniform in the first curved surface; a first electrode layer disposed on the second curved surface of the first resin substrate; a second electrode layer opposing the first electrode layer; and a space adjusting resin layer disposed between the first electrode layer and the second electrode layer and formed by injecting a resin, the space adjusting resin layer being light-transmissive and having optical isotropy, wherein the first curved surface of the first resin substrate is an operation surface on which an input operation is performed, and has the space adjusting resin layer between the first and second electrode layers has a thickness greater than that of the first resin substrate.
This invention relates to an input device designed for touch or proximity sensing applications, particularly in curved or flexible display systems. The device addresses challenges in maintaining optical clarity and uniform performance in curved input surfaces, where conventional flat-panel technologies may suffer from distortion or inconsistent touch detection. The input device includes a first resin substrate with a curved operation surface and an opposing second curved surface. The substrate is light-transmissive and exhibits optical isotropy or uniform uniaxial anisotropy across its curved surface, ensuring consistent optical properties regardless of viewing angle. A first electrode layer is deposited on the second curved surface, while a second electrode layer is positioned opposite the first, forming a capacitive or resistive sensing structure. A space-adjusting resin layer, also light-transmissive and optically isotropic, is injected between the electrode layers to maintain precise spacing. This resin layer has a greater thickness than the substrate itself, allowing for flexibility in design and compensation for curvature variations. The combination of these components enables accurate input detection while preserving optical clarity and mechanical durability in curved or flexible applications.
2. The input device according to claim 1 , further comprising: a second resin substrate disposed on the second electrode layer on an opposite side of the space adjusting resin layer, the second resin substrate being light-transmissive and having optical isotropy or optical uniaxial anisotropy uniform in a surface thereof.
This invention relates to an input device, specifically an optical touch sensor, designed to improve light transmission and uniformity for accurate touch detection. The device addresses the problem of optical distortion and non-uniformity in touch sensors, which can degrade performance by causing inaccurate touch detection or visual artifacts. The input device includes a first resin substrate, a first electrode layer, a space adjusting resin layer, a second electrode layer, and a second resin substrate. The second resin substrate is disposed on the second electrode layer, opposite the space adjusting resin layer. This substrate is light-transmissive and exhibits optical isotropy or uniform optical uniaxial anisotropy across its surface, ensuring consistent light propagation and minimizing distortion. The space adjusting resin layer maintains a precise gap between the electrode layers, optimizing optical coupling and touch sensitivity. The first resin substrate provides structural support, while the first and second electrode layers detect touch inputs by sensing changes in light transmission or reflection. The combination of these components enhances optical uniformity, improving touch accuracy and visual clarity in display applications.
3. The input device according to claim 2 , further comprising: a lead wire configured to transmit a change in capacitance formed between the first electrode layer and the second electrode layer to outside.
The invention relates to an input device, specifically a capacitive touch sensor, designed to detect user input by measuring changes in capacitance between two electrode layers. The device addresses the need for reliable and accurate touch detection in electronic interfaces, particularly in applications where precise input is required. The input device includes a first electrode layer and a second electrode layer, where the first electrode layer is positioned above the second electrode layer with an insulating layer in between. When a user interacts with the device, the capacitance between the two electrode layers changes due to the proximity or contact of a conductive object, such as a finger. This change in capacitance is then transmitted to an external processing unit via a lead wire, allowing the system to interpret the input. The lead wire ensures that the detected capacitance change is accurately conveyed for further processing, enabling the device to function as part of a larger input system. The invention improves upon existing capacitive touch sensors by providing a more reliable and efficient means of transmitting the detected signal, enhancing the overall performance of touch-sensitive interfaces.
4. The input device according to claim 2 , wherein the second resin substrate is integrated with the first resin substrate, and a bent portion is provided between the first resin substrate and the second resin substrate.
This invention relates to input devices, particularly those with flexible or bendable structures. The problem addressed is the need for durable, flexible input devices that can withstand repeated bending without damage, while maintaining functionality. The device includes a first resin substrate and a second resin substrate, where the second substrate is integrated with the first substrate. A bent portion is formed between the two substrates, allowing the device to flex at this junction. This design enables the input device to be bent or folded without breaking, improving its durability and usability in applications requiring flexibility, such as foldable electronics or wearable devices. The integration of the two substrates ensures structural integrity while allowing movement at the bent portion. The invention may also include additional features, such as conductive layers or sensors, to enable input functionality while maintaining flexibility. The bent portion can be reinforced or designed to distribute stress evenly, preventing localized damage. This flexible input device is suitable for use in various electronic applications where traditional rigid substrates would be impractical.
5. The input device according to claim 2 , wherein the second resin substrate has a third curved surface on which the second electrode layer is disposed, and a fourth surface opposite to the third surface.
The invention relates to an input device, specifically a flexible input device with a curved surface for improved user interaction. The device addresses the challenge of integrating touch-sensitive functionality into curved or irregular surfaces, which is difficult with traditional flat-panel input devices. The input device includes a first resin substrate with a first curved surface and a first electrode layer disposed on this surface. A second resin substrate is bonded to the first substrate, featuring a second curved surface with a second electrode layer. The second substrate also has a third curved surface, opposite the second surface, where an additional second electrode layer is disposed. This configuration allows for multi-touch or multi-layer sensing capabilities, enhancing the device's responsiveness and accuracy. The resin substrates provide flexibility and durability, enabling the input device to conform to various curved or contoured surfaces while maintaining reliable electrical connectivity. The invention improves upon prior art by offering a more adaptable and precise input solution for curved interfaces, such as wearable devices, automotive controls, or ergonomic input surfaces.
6. The input device according to claim 5 , wherein the fourth surface is a curved surface.
An input device is designed to improve user interaction with electronic systems by providing a more ergonomic and responsive interface. The device includes a housing with multiple surfaces, where at least one surface is a curved surface. This curved surface enhances comfort and usability, particularly for touch-based interactions, by conforming to natural hand movements. The curved design reduces strain and improves accuracy during prolonged use. The input device may also incorporate additional features such as sensors or actuators to detect and respond to user inputs, ensuring precise and intuitive operation. The curved surface can be integrated into various parts of the device, such as buttons, touchpads, or display areas, to optimize user experience across different applications. This design addresses the problem of discomfort and inefficiency in traditional flat-surface input devices, offering a more adaptable and user-friendly alternative. The curved surface may be implemented using flexible or rigid materials, depending on the specific application requirements, to balance durability and responsiveness. The overall structure ensures seamless integration with existing electronic systems while enhancing interaction quality.
7. The input device according to claim 5 , wherein the fourth surface is a flat surface.
This invention relates to input devices, specifically those designed to improve user interaction by incorporating a flat surface for enhanced functionality. The device includes a housing with multiple surfaces, where a fourth surface is specifically configured as a flat surface to facilitate user input. This flat surface may serve as a touch-sensitive or pressure-sensitive interface, allowing for gestures, swipes, or other interactions. The housing also includes other surfaces that may be curved or contoured, providing ergonomic benefits while maintaining the flat surface for precise input. The flat surface can be integrated with sensors or actuators to detect and respond to user actions, such as touch, pressure, or proximity. The design ensures that the flat surface remains accessible and functional, even when the device is held or manipulated in various orientations. This configuration enhances usability by providing a dedicated input area that is distinct from other surfaces, reducing accidental inputs and improving accuracy. The invention is particularly useful in portable or handheld devices where space is limited, and efficient input methods are critical. The flat surface may also include visual or haptic feedback mechanisms to confirm user interactions. Overall, the device combines ergonomic design with a dedicated flat input surface to optimize user experience.
8. The input device according to claim 1 , further comprising: a lead wire configured to transmit a change in capacitance formed between the first electrode layer and the second electrode layer to outside.
The invention relates to an input device designed to detect user interactions, such as touch or proximity, by measuring changes in capacitance between two electrode layers. The device includes a first electrode layer and a second electrode layer, where the first electrode layer is positioned above the second electrode layer with an insulating layer in between. The first electrode layer is configured to deform in response to external pressure or proximity, altering the capacitance between the two layers. This change in capacitance is then detected and processed to determine the presence and location of the input. To enable external processing of the capacitance changes, the device includes a lead wire connected to the electrode layers. The lead wire transmits the detected capacitance variations to an external circuit or controller, which interprets the signals to generate input commands. This design allows for precise and reliable detection of user interactions, making it suitable for applications in touchscreens, touchpads, or other interactive interfaces. The lead wire ensures that the capacitance data is accurately conveyed for further analysis, enhancing the device's functionality and responsiveness.
9. The input device according to claim 1 , wherein a thickness of the first resin substrate smaller than that of the space adjusting layer and a distance between the first electrode layer and the second electrode layers given by the thickness of the space adjusting resin layer greater than that of the first resin layer together provide an increased sensitivity to the input operation onto the first curved surface, while the thickness of the space adjusting resin layer greater than that of the first resin layer provides support for the thinner first resin substrate.
This invention relates to an input device with improved sensitivity and structural support for curved surfaces. The device includes a first resin substrate with a first electrode layer, a second resin substrate with a second electrode layer, and a space adjusting resin layer between them. The first resin substrate is thinner than the space adjusting layer, and the distance between the first and second electrode layers, determined by the space adjusting layer's thickness, is greater than the thickness of the first resin layer. This configuration enhances sensitivity to input operations on the first curved surface while the thicker space adjusting layer provides structural support for the thinner first resin substrate. The device may also include a second curved surface opposite the first curved surface, with the second resin substrate being thinner than the space adjusting layer and the distance between the electrode layers being greater than the second resin layer's thickness. This ensures balanced sensitivity and support across both surfaces. The invention addresses the challenge of maintaining sensitivity and durability in curved input devices by optimizing layer thicknesses and spacing.
10. A method for manufacturing an input device, the method comprising: forming a first resin substrate by bending a light-transmissive resin material so as to have a first curved surface and a second curved surface opposite to the first curved surface, the first resin substrate having optical isotropy or optical uniaxial anisotropy uniform in the first curved surface; forming a first electrode layer on the second curved surface of the first resin substrate; forming a space adjusting resin layer by injecting a light-transmissive optically-isotropic resin material into a mold in which the first resin substrate having the first electrode layer thereon is inserted the space adjusting resin layer and the first resin substrate sandwiching the first electrode layer therebetween; and forming a second electrode layer on the space adjusting resin layer on an opposite side of the first electrode layer, wherein the space adjusting resin layer between the first and second electrode layers has a thickness greater than a thickness of the first resin substrate.
This invention relates to manufacturing a curved input device, such as a touch sensor, for electronic displays. The problem addressed is achieving uniform optical properties and precise layer alignment in curved devices, which is challenging due to material deformation and alignment issues during bending and layer formation. The method involves forming a first resin substrate by bending a light-transmissive resin material to create a curved surface with optical isotropy or uniform uniaxial anisotropy. A first electrode layer is then deposited on the concave side of the curved substrate. A space-adjusting resin layer, made of an optically isotropic resin, is injected into a mold containing the substrate and electrode, ensuring the electrode is sandwiched between the substrate and the space-adjusting layer. A second electrode layer is formed on the opposite side of the space-adjusting layer, with the space-adjusting layer being thicker than the substrate. This design ensures optical consistency and structural stability in the final curved input device, improving touch sensitivity and visual clarity. The process avoids misalignment and distortion, which are common in conventional curved device manufacturing.
11. The method for manufacturing an input device according to claim 10 , wherein a thickness of the first resin substrate smaller than that of the space adjusting layer and a distance between the first electrode layer and the second electrode layers given by the thickness of the space adjusting resin layer greater than that of the first resin layer together provide an increased sensitivity to the input operation onto the first curved surface, while the thickness of the space adjusting resin layer greater than that of the first resin layer provides support for the thinner first resin substrate.
This invention relates to the manufacturing of input devices, particularly those with curved surfaces, addressing the challenge of balancing sensitivity and structural integrity in such designs. The method involves constructing an input device with a first resin substrate, a space adjusting resin layer, and a second resin substrate. The first resin substrate, which forms part of the input surface, is thinner than the space adjusting layer. This design ensures that the distance between the first electrode layer (on the first resin substrate) and the second electrode layers (on the second resin substrate) is primarily determined by the thickness of the space adjusting resin layer, which is greater than that of the first resin layer. This configuration enhances sensitivity to input operations on the curved surface while maintaining structural support for the thinner first resin substrate. The space adjusting layer compensates for the reduced thickness of the first resin substrate, preventing deformation or damage while ensuring precise electrode spacing for optimal touch detection. The method ensures that the input device remains responsive and durable despite the curved geometry.
12. A method for manufacturing an input device, the method comprising: forming a first resin substrate by bending a first light-transmissive resin material so as to have a first curved surface and a second curved surface opposite to the first curved surface, the first resin substrate having optical isotropy or optical uniaxial anisotropy uniform in the first curved surface; forming a first electrode layer on the second curved surface of the first resin substrate; forming a second resin substrate by bending a second light-transmissive resin material to form a second resin substrate with a third curved surface and a fourth curved surface opposite to the third curved surface, the first resin substrate having optical isotropy or optical uniaxial anisotropy uniform in the third curved surface; forming a second electrode layer on the third curved surface of the second resin substrate; and forming a space adjusting resin layer by injecting a light-transmissive optically-isotropic resin material into a mold in which the first resin substrate having the first electrode layer thereon and the second resin substrate having the second electrode layer thereon are inserted with a predetermined space provided between the first resin substrate and the second resin substrate, the space adjusting resin layer being provided between the first electrode layer and the second electrode layer and having a thickness between the first and second electrode layers greater than a thickness of the first resin substrate.
This invention relates to manufacturing a curved input device, such as a touch-sensitive display, with improved optical and structural properties. The problem addressed is achieving uniform optical performance and precise spacing in curved input devices, which is challenging due to material deformation and alignment issues during bending and assembly. The method involves forming two curved resin substrates from light-transmissive materials, each with uniform optical properties (isotropic or uniaxial anisotropic) across their curved surfaces. The first substrate is bent to have opposing first and second curved surfaces, with the second surface receiving a first electrode layer. Similarly, the second substrate is bent to have opposing third and fourth curved surfaces, with the third surface receiving a second electrode layer. The substrates are then positioned in a mold with a controlled gap between them. A light-transmissive, optically isotropic resin is injected into the mold to form a space-adjusting layer between the electrode layers. This layer ensures precise spacing, with a thickness greater than the first substrate's thickness, while maintaining optical clarity and uniformity. The resulting structure enables high-performance curved input devices with consistent optical and tactile properties.
13. The method for manufacturing an input device according to claim 12 , wherein a thickness of the first resin substrate smaller than that of the space adjusting layer and a distance between the first electrode layer and the second electrode layers given by the thickness of the space adjusting resin layer greater than that of the first resin layer together provide an increased sensitivity to the input operation onto the first curved surface, while the thickness of the space adjusting resin layer greater than that of the first resin layer provides support for the thinner first resin substrate.
This invention relates to the manufacturing of input devices, particularly those with curved surfaces, addressing the challenge of balancing sensitivity and structural integrity in such designs. The method involves creating an input device with a first resin substrate, a space adjusting layer, and a second resin substrate. The first resin substrate is thinner than the space adjusting layer, and the distance between the first electrode layer (on the first resin substrate) and the second electrode layers (on the second resin substrate) is determined by the thickness of the space adjusting resin layer. This configuration enhances sensitivity to input operations on the curved surface while ensuring the thinner first resin substrate is adequately supported by the thicker space adjusting layer. The electrode layers enable capacitive or resistive sensing, and the space adjusting layer maintains proper spacing for consistent performance. The overall design improves responsiveness in curved input devices without compromising durability.
14. A method for manufacturing an input device, the method comprising: providing a light-tranmissive resin material having a first surface and a second surface opposite to the first surface and forming a first electrode layer on the second surface of the resin material; bending the resin material with the first electrode layer thereon to form a first resin substrate with a first curved surface and a second curved surface opposite to the first curved surface, the first resin substrate having optical isotropy or optical uniaxial anisotropy uniform in the first curved surface; forming a space adjusting resin layer by injecting a light-transmissive optically-isotropic resin material into a mold in which the first resin substrate having the first electrode layer thereon is inserted, the space adjusting resin layer and the first resin substrate sandwiching the first electrode layer therebetween; and forming a second electrode layer on the space adjusting resin layer on an opposite side of the first electrode layer, wherein the space adjusting resin layer between the first and second electrode layers has a thickness greater than a thickness of the first resin substrate.
This invention relates to the manufacture of input devices, particularly those incorporating flexible, curved substrates with electrode layers for touch or sensor applications. The problem addressed is achieving uniform optical properties and precise layer thickness in curved input devices, which is challenging due to material deformation during bending and resin injection processes. The method involves providing a light-transmissive resin material with two opposing surfaces. A first electrode layer is formed on one surface of the resin. The resin is then bent to create a curved substrate with uniform optical properties (either isotropic or uniaxially anisotropic) across its curved surface. A space-adjusting resin layer is formed by injecting an optically isotropic resin into a mold containing the curved substrate, sandwiching the first electrode layer between the original resin and the new layer. A second electrode layer is then formed on the opposite side of the space-adjusting layer. The space-adjusting layer is thicker than the original resin substrate, ensuring proper spacing between the two electrode layers. This process enables the production of flexible, curved input devices with consistent optical and electrical performance.
15. The method for manufacturing an input device according to claim 14 , wherein a thickness of the first resin substrate smaller than that of the space adjusting layer and a distance between the first electrode layer and the second electrode layers given by the thickness of the space adjusting resin layer greater than that of the first resin layer together provide an increased sensitivity to the input operation onto the first curved surface, while the thickness of the space adjusting resin layer greater than that of the first resin layer provides support for the thinner first resin substrate.
This invention relates to the manufacturing of input devices, particularly those with curved surfaces, addressing the challenge of balancing sensitivity and structural integrity. The method involves creating an input device with a first resin substrate, a space adjusting resin layer, and a second resin substrate. The first resin substrate is thinner than the space adjusting layer, and the distance between the first electrode layer (on the first resin substrate) and the second electrode layers (on the second resin substrate) is determined by the thickness of the space adjusting resin layer. This configuration enhances sensitivity to input operations on the curved surface while maintaining structural support for the thinner first resin substrate. The space adjusting layer ensures proper spacing between the electrode layers, improving touch responsiveness, while its greater thickness compensates for the reduced thickness of the first resin substrate, preventing deformation or damage. The second resin substrate provides additional rigidity and protection. This design is particularly useful for curved input devices where maintaining sensitivity without compromising durability is critical. The method ensures optimal performance by carefully controlling the relative thicknesses of the layers to achieve both functional and mechanical benefits.
16. A method for manufacturing an input device, the method comprising: providing a first light-transmissive resin material having a first surface and a second surface opposite to the first surface and forming a first electrode layer on the second surface of the first resin material; bending the first resin material with the first electrode thereon to form a first resin substrate with a first curved surface and a second curved surface opposite to the first curved surface, the first resin substrate having optical isotropy or optical uniaxial anisotropy uniform in the first curved surface; providing a second light-transmissive resin material having a third surface and a fourth surface opposite to the third surface and forming a second electrode layer on the third surface of the second resin material; bending the second resin material with the second electrode thereon to form a second resin substrate with a third curved surface and a fourth curved surface opposite to the third curved surface, the second resin substrate having optical isotropy or optical uniaxial anisotropy uniform in the third curved surface; and forming a space adjusting layer by injecting a light-transmissive optically-isotropic resin material into a mold in which the first resin substrate having the first electrode layer thereon and the second resin substrate having the second electrode layer thereon are inserted with a predetermined space provided between the first resin substrate and the second resin substrate, the space adjusting resin layer being provided between the first electrode layer and the second electrode layer so as to have a thickness greater than a thickness of the first resin substrate.
This invention relates to the manufacture of input devices, particularly those incorporating curved, light-transmissive resin substrates with uniform optical properties. The method addresses challenges in producing curved input devices with consistent optical performance, such as touchscreens or flexible displays, where maintaining optical uniformity across curved surfaces is critical. The process begins by providing a first light-transmissive resin material with opposing first and second surfaces. A first electrode layer is formed on the second surface. The resin material is then bent to create a first curved substrate with a first curved surface and an opposite second curved surface, ensuring the substrate exhibits either optical isotropy or uniform uniaxial anisotropy across the first curved surface. A similar process is applied to a second light-transmissive resin material, forming a second curved substrate with a third curved surface and an opposite fourth curved surface, also exhibiting optical isotropy or uniform uniaxial anisotropy across the third curved surface. The first and second curved substrates, each with their respective electrode layers, are inserted into a mold with a predetermined space between them. A light-transmissive, optically-isotropic resin material is injected into the mold to form a space-adjusting layer between the electrode layers. This layer has a thickness greater than that of the first resin substrate, ensuring proper spacing and optical consistency in the final input device. The method enables the production of curved input devices with precise optical and electrical properties.
17. The method for manufacturing an input device according to claim 16 , wherein a thickness of the first resin substrate smaller than that of the space adjusting layer and a distance between the first electrode layer and the second electrode layers given by the thickness of the space adjusting resin layer greater than that of the first resin layer together provide an increased sensitivity to the input operation onto the first curved surface, while the thickness of the space adjusting resin layer greater than that of the first resin layer provides support for the thinner first resin substrate.
This invention relates to the manufacturing of input devices, particularly those with curved surfaces, addressing the challenge of balancing sensitivity and structural integrity in flexible or curved input devices. The method involves constructing an input device with a first resin substrate, a space adjusting resin layer, and a second resin substrate. The first resin substrate, which forms the input surface, is thinner than the space adjusting layer. This thinner substrate enhances sensitivity to touch or input operations on the curved surface by reducing the distance between the user's input and the underlying sensing components. The space adjusting resin layer, being thicker than the first resin substrate, provides structural support to prevent deformation or damage to the thinner input layer. The combined thickness of the space adjusting layer and the second resin substrate ensures rigidity while maintaining the desired sensitivity. The second resin substrate may include a second electrode layer, which, along with a first electrode layer in the first resin substrate, forms a capacitive or resistive sensing mechanism. The space adjusting layer maintains a precise distance between these electrode layers, optimizing signal detection. This design allows for a highly responsive input device with a durable, curved surface suitable for applications in flexible displays, touchscreens, or other interactive interfaces.
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December 24, 2019
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